I became a big fan of the Avett Brothers pretty much the first time I heard them. I love the songs (both musically and lyrically), but mainly there's just no denying the magical something that many singing siblings bring to their music. Scott and Seth Avett have almost the same voice—with "almost" and "same" being the keys here. Occasionally I can't quite tell which brother is singing (unless I'm watching a video, of course), and for that same reason their harmonies are exquisite. Furthermore, their timing and musical sensibilities and give-and-take are the sort of thing that only siblings can accomplish. Yeah, they're that good.
Their latest CD, "Live, Volume 3
If you think maybe you've heard an Avett Brothers song, "I and Love and You" is probably the one. As far as I'm concerned, it's a perfectly wrought song. Here's Scott on vocals, and Seth on piano and vocals:
How about "Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promises," which features Scott on piano this time, and Seth on guitar. My favorite line is "Decide what to be and go be it."
Like things a little more rollicking? Try "Talk on Indolence," with Seth again on guitar and Scott on banjo. If it's a little too fast for you, just hang in there—the slow part in the middle and again at the end is gorgeous (and Seth's crooning at the very end is worth the price of admission alone). Beyond that, how can you not love a song with these lyrics: "I'm a little nervous about what you'll think when you see me in my swimming trunks...."
Finally, here's "Kick Drum Heart," with Seth on piano and Scott on drums. Andy said that Scott reminds him an awful lot of a young Levon Helm from the early years of the Band, and I have to agree.
I own another live CD from these guys, and I used to wonder about all the screaming. Now that I can see them doing their thing, I get it. And I'm kicking myself, because they performed here in Boston a few weeks ago and I didn't know about it. They obviously put on an amazing show from start to finish.
Haven't even watched the vids yet (but I will) but I gotta say how much love it that you are admitting to your fangirldom. I'm right there with you (though of course for those other Brothers). Yay for great music, and thanks for sharing.
Posted by: nina | October 27, 2010 at 08:47 PM
I can haz Vice Presidency?
Posted by: Seth Lipkin | October 27, 2010 at 09:13 PM
My favorite lyric from one of their songs (of the few I've heard) is "Everyone I know out here is lonely, even those that have someone to lie beside at night." It's from Pretty Girl at the Airport. Lovely, sad song.
Posted by: nina | October 27, 2010 at 09:27 PM
Oh FUN. Have never heard them before and am hooked now. Thank you!
Posted by: Mir | October 28, 2010 at 08:14 AM
They are terrific, aren't they. Cannot for the life of me pick a favorite song!
Posted by: Kelly | October 31, 2010 at 10:13 PM